Great songs recommended for people in their 80s: a collection of tracks with lyrics that touch the heart
When it comes to songs familiar to people in their 80s, wouldn’t it be the kayōkyoku and enka hits from the Showa era? Many songs from that time have been loved across generations, and there are countless timeless classics that still shine today.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide array of moving, heartfelt songs all at once—Showa masterpieces as well as school songs and children’s songs.
From songs about deep love to ones about family and hometown, these are sure to resonate with people in their 80s.
Please do recommend the songs we introduce to the 80-somethings around you.
Great songs recommended for people in their 80s. A collection of tracks with lyrics that touch the heart (1–10)
Hymn to LoveKoshiji Fubuki
“Hymne à l’amour” by Fubuki Koshiji is one of the quintessential masterpieces of Showa-era kayōkyoku.
The profound love and devotion imbued in this song are sure to resonate deeply in the heart.
First performed in 1952, it has long been cherished as a wedding classic, and together with the charm of Tokiko Iwatani’s Japanese lyrics, it continues to be loved as a timeless masterpiece.
The album “Young Days’ Singing Voices ~ Hymne à l’amour ~” is a collection of Koshiji’s vocals from her twenties to thirties—a single disc that truly distills her allure.
Why not listen to it slowly as you look back on memories with your beloved partner?
Always keep your dreamsYukio Hashi, Sayuri Yoshinaga
This famous duet by Yukio Hashi and Sayuri Yoshinaga captivates with warm lyrics that convey the importance of holding on to your dreams.
Its message—to never lose hope and keep looking forward no matter the circumstances—gently embraces the listener’s heart.
Released in 1962, the song became an instant hit and won the Japan Record Award.
It was also used as the theme song for a film of the same name, with the duo’s moving vocals resonating across the big screen.
It is a masterpiece especially recommended for those who have experienced the joys and sorrows of life.
Keep the song’s heartfelt message close, and continue to cherish your dreams.
Northern SpringMasao Sen
Kitaguni no Haru (Spring in the Northern Country) is a moving Showa-era classic that evokes nostalgia for one’s hometown with the arrival of spring.
Created by lyricist Haku Ide and composer Minoru Endo, it is one of Masao Sen’s signature songs, and upon its release in April 1977 it became a million-seller.
Although there were times when sales lagged, Sen continued to sing it in his distinctive style, and the song remains beloved by many to this day.
The lyrics, which depict spring’s emblematic winds and flowers like a watercolor painting, are as beautiful as a passage from a novel and deeply stir the listener’s heart.
Why not sing it together with your family and friends while picturing the nostalgic scenes of your hometown?
Tears Flowing EndlesslyRimi Natsukawa
“Nada Sou Sou,” a song that poignantly captures swelling emotion and aching sadness, is one of Rimi Natsukawa’s signature pieces that resonates deeply.
Its lyrics, expressing the sorrow of losing a loved one and an unchanging love for them, quietly seep into the listener’s heart.
The arrangement, incorporating traditional Okinawan instruments, blends beautifully with Natsukawa’s clear vocals to create a nostalgic, beautiful melody.
Upon its 2001 release, it became a long-running hit, later gaining broad support as it was featured in commercials for ANA and the Japan Post Group.
A timeless classic, it’s a reassuring song that stays close to the heart—one to savor.
Song of the Four SeasonsYoko Seri
Shiki no Uta (Song of the Four Seasons), with lyrics by Toyohisa Araki and the clear, translucent vocals of Yoko Seri, is a masterpiece that beautifully captures the scenery of each season and the emotions of the people who live through them.
It portrays characters who cherish spring, summer, autumn, and winter, conveying a deep bond between nature and humanity.
Released by King Records in 1976, the song was a major hit, reaching as high as No.
8 on the Oricon charts.
It has been included on albums such as Yoko Seri Complete Collection ~Shiki no Uta~ and continues to be a long-selling favorite.
Its gentle melody and lyrics that evoke the changing seasons are sure to resonate with many listeners.
Sing it with your family, and it’s sure to spark lively conversation.
City LightsMasaaki Sakai
A timeless song graced by Masakazu Sakai’s warm vocals that truly resonates with the heart.
Released in 1973, it became a hit amid the crowded field of idol singers of the time.
The lyrics are memorable for their gentle portrayal of moments when hearts connect, offering comfort to those who carry loneliness and solitude.
The flickering city lights evoke the very instant when bonds between people are born, leaving you with a cozy, heartwarming feeling.
This piece reminds us of the importance of relationships in which we can share and lighten each other’s pain and loneliness.
It might be nice to listen to it with older adults and let it spark fond conversations about days gone by.
Yearning for the ShadowIchiro Fujiyama
The classic “Kage o Shitaite” by Ichirō Fujiyama.
Born from Masao Koga’s deep anguish and wistful longing, this song sets the figure of a protagonist harboring inexpressible sorrow to a beautiful melody.
Fujiyama’s clear diction and dignified vocals shine, making it impossible not to be moved.
As you let your thoughts wander to the Shōwa era, please listen quietly and take it in.
Since its release in 1932, it has remained beloved for many years.
It is a song I especially hope those with rich life experience will savor—both to reminisce about the past and to appreciate its depth.